In a Gazette notice dated December 5, Chief Justice Martha Koome assigned High Court Judge Richard Mwongo to preside over a petition that challenges the official results.
The petition, filed by two residents—Julieta Karigi Kithumbu and Patrick Gitonga Gichoni—seeks to overturn the victory of UDA’s Leonard Wa Muthende Njeru.
Muthende was declared the winner on November 27 after narrowly edging out his closest opponent, Newton “Karish” Kariuki, who garnered 15,308 votes.
However, the heart of the dispute lies in an unexpected twist involving the winner’s identity.
According to the petitioners, Muthende legally changed his name from Leonard Muriuki Njeru to Leo Wa Muthende Njeru in September 2024.
They argue that the name he used during the by-election does not match the details on the official voter register, making him ineligible to vie.
Opposition figures had earlier voiced fears of interference in the race, hinting at irregularities in tallying and alleged state involvement. The court’s decision to officially take up the matter has now intensified scrutiny.
With Judge Mwongo set to hear the case at the Embu High Court, all eyes are on the proceedings.
The ruling could dramatically alter the political leadership of Mbeere North—and potentially shape public confidence in Kenya’s by-election integrity